Prius needed in China, but not selling well

Without tax breaks, the Prius isn't a big hit in China. Although the gas-electric hybrid would seem to be a welcome treat in cities gagging on air pollution, officials say sales are sluggish at 100 a month. Toyota originally had sales goals of 3,000 a year. Other Toyota vehicles are selling well but the main problem appears to be a lack of environmental enthusiasm on the part of upscale Chinese consumers. The Prius sells for $40,000 in China, about double the cost in the U.S. But there are no tax breaks or perks such as convenient parking or HOV access. Toyota says it still plans on introducing more hybrid models in the Chinese market.

[Source: Christine Tierney / Detroit News]